It appears very likely that five out of the nine members of the Detroit City Council could be "packing heat" very soon. The fact that Detroit has one of the highest crime rates in the nation has driven some politicians to acquire concealed carry permits, even though the politicians are assigned a personal security force. According to mlive.com, four members "revealed ... they each have a concealed pistol permit" and a fifth planned "to get one by Thanksgiving."

Councilman Reverend Andre Spivey told the Detroit Free Press in November, "It's not an indictment upon the citizens of Detroit but just for my own personal assurances. I was concerned that the city of Detroit not turn into the wild, wild West, but I've talked with several incumbents, and the office presents some challenges. I don't feel I have to use it, but I'll feel more comfortable having it.... I hope no one will be out to hurt me or any council person. But we're in a different age."